Jose Ignacio Alfonso Campos

Jose Ignacio Alfonso was called home to the Lord on March 2, 2025, at the age of 93, to be reunited with his loving wife of over 50 years, Alba. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mario and Victoria Alfonso, and his brother Carlos.

Jose was the beloved father of Denise Alfonso Varela (Mother Sadie Gonzalez), Joseph Alfonso, Lisett Cluggish, Mario (Karen) Alfonso, Katherine (John) Bender, the late Edward (Cindi) Alfonso, Robert (Heather) Alfonso, and Janette (Jason) Sfire. He was a proud grandfather to 20 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Born in Cuba, Jose embraced the opportunity for a better life when he moved his family to the United States in 1962. Originally settled in Omaha, Nebraska before moving to the Chicago area in 1965 to further advance his career. In 1972 he became an entrepreneur, founding Enertech, an architectural/engineering firm specializing in the graphic arts & printing industry. Under Jose’s leadership, his firm developed many notable projects around the world as well as being integral in the early movement of ink and oils recycling for the industry along with the EPA and OSHA.

Running a successful A&E firm was not enough for Jose in advancing his knowledge and impact in the business world, he was also the President of the Minority Business Leaders organization in Chicago, his firm and its involvement with these world class organizations allowed him and his wife Alba to travel the world extensively.

Jose and Alba spent time living in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Boca Raton, FL and for 30 years, they enjoyed a lakefront home in Effingham, Illinois, creating lasting memories with their children and grandchildren.

Jose shared his wisdom and guidance with his family; and enjoyed a healthy debate at every opportunity. He retired in Huntley, Illinois. From 2017 to 2022, Jose lived in Panama until the passing of his late wife, Graciella Mercedes Ureta Martez.

In his final years, Jose lived in North Palm Beach, Florida, where he continued his love of beautiful weather, learning, reading, and writing until his passing.

In accordance with his wishes, a celebration of life will be held for family and friends to honor his memory, on March 29, at 3:00 pm at Faith Lutheran Church in North Palm Beach. He will be remembered for his generosity, love of music, being technologically savvy, and having an incredible desire to learn and grow in his intellect. His ashes will be laid to rest alongside his lifelong love, Alba, in a private family service in Chicago at a later date.